CELTIC goalkeeper Fraser Forster believes qualifying for the Champions League can make up for having no Old Firm clashes.

The Hoops have to navigate two qualifying rounds, with their opening tie on July 31, to take their place in the money-spinning group stage of Europe’s premier club competition.

Forster, 24, who has signed a four-year deal with Celtic after two seasons on loan, said: “It [Champions League] will be huge, we all enjoyed playing in the Europa League last year but we want to be in the Champions League and test ourselves against the best in Europe.

“We’ll miss the build-up to the Old Firm games and the atmosphere, but everyone’s concentrating on working really hard preparing for the qualifiers.

“They are very special games. It’s something you really want to be a part of.”

I haven’t hidden the fact that playing for England is one of my ambitions

Fraser Forster

Forster’s switch from Newcastle dragged on through the close season, but he was never in any doubt that he would sign a permanent deal with the SPL champions.

He said: “I was always coming back, it was just a case of going backwards and forwards and getting the deal sorted.

Everyone was off on holiday and we got there eventually, but it took a bit of time.

“Celtic’s a massive club, it’s great playing here. I couldn’t be at a bigger club and the chance to play in Europe again was a big part of it.”

Forster believes he can force his way into the England set-up playing for Celtic.

“If you’re playing in Europe and are performing at that level that can benefit you.

“I haven’t hidden the fact that playing for England is one of my ambitions.

“I’ve just got to keep playing well for my club and working hard. I’m willing to be patient and wait for that chance.”